44-year-old Sturgeon has had a successful career in SNP politics. When the SNP won the highest number of seats in the Scottish Parliament following the 2007 election, she became Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Health and Wellbeing until 2012 and Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure, Investment and Cities after 2012. A poll carried out recently in Scotland suggests Sturgeon is the politician most trusted by the Scottish public, with 54% of respondents saying they trust her to stand up for Scotland’s interests, against 33% who do not.

As the first woman holding that position, Sturgeon’s First Ministership is a strong symbol for all Scots. Her task will be arduous and crucial as she will negotiate further devolution with the UK government.